Best of the Left - Leftist Perspectives on Progressive Politics, News, Culture, Economics and Democracy

#1763 It's Not a Health Care System, it's a Wealth Extraction System

Jan 10, 2026
Guest
Physician / Health Policy Expert (guest)
Guest
Progressive Elected Official / Candidate (guest commentator)
Guest
Elizabeth Benjamin
Elizabeth Benjamin, a health initiatives VP at the Community Service Society, leads a discussion on the impending expiration of ACA subsidies affecting millions. A progressive elected official shares insights on medical debt relief and the push for Medicare for All. A health policy expert critiques the U.S. healthcare system, highlighting systemic inefficiencies and the need for public-centered models. Together, they explore the dire consequences of policy choices on coverage and costs, urging the view of healthcare as a fundamental right.
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INSIGHT

Pandemic Subsidies Drove Massive Enrollment

  • Enhanced ACA premium tax credits doubled marketplace enrollment and made coverage affordable during the pandemic.
  • Their expiration will likely push millions off coverage and raise premiums sharply for many.
ADVICE

Use Certified Navigators, Avoid Faux Plans

  • Contact a certified navigator or hospital certified application counselor to evaluate real insurance options.
  • Avoid faux products like short-term plans and health-sharing ministries that often don't cover needed care.
INSIGHT

Subsidies Go To People, Not Insurers

  • The federal assistance is paid to individuals via tax credits, not directly to insurers.
  • True cost control requires rate-setting like Switzerland or expanding Medicare's rate power.
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